MEC Commits to Free, Fair, and Transparent Elections

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections in Malawi. According to MEC representative Munika, the commission has implemented strict guidelines to govern its operations and conduct during electoral periods. “We are dedicated to upholding these standards,” Munika said.

Munika expressed disappointment over recent calls by opposition parties to revert to manual voting processes, despite these parties’ previous support for the legislative changes. He stated, “It is disappointing that opposition parties now call for a return to manual processes, especially when they were instrumental in passing this law.”

Responding to demands for the MEC chairperson’s resignation, Munika described these claims as meritless attempts to undermine the commission’s credibility. “The chairperson of MEC is chosen by the Justice Service Commission, which includes Supreme Court and High Court Justices. They present three names to the President, who then makes a selection,” he explained, adding that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), as an opposition party, has three commissioners on the MEC.

The MEC has called on all political parties and stakeholders to respect the rule of law and cooperate to ensure elections are conducted with integrity.

Despite this, opposition parties—including the DPP, UTM, AFORD, UDF, and PP—plan to protest demanding that MEC chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja step down due to her family ties to former Malawi Congress Party president John Tembo. The opposition also insists that voter registration be halted, claiming that many Malawians lack national IDs, which are required for registration.

Meanwhile, Lilongwe District Commissioner Lawford Palani has requested that opposition parties reschedule their planned demonstrations.